Aflac Life Insurance Japan (Visit website, opens in a new tab)
Specialist in cancer and medical insurance paying cash benefits.
Also offers
Japan
Statutory social insuranceHow health coverage works
In Japan, basic health cover is provided by a statutory social insurance system.
Universal coverage through employer-based health societies and National Health Insurance for others. Patients usually pay 30% of costs, with monthly caps. Private medical insurance adds cash benefits for hospital stays, cancer and surgery.
Basic coverage is provided by the public system. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
Private medical insurance
Dai-ichi Life (Visit website, opens in a new tab)
Life insurer offering medical, cancer and nursing-care insurance for individuals.
Also offers
Nippon Life (Visit website, opens in a new tab)
Life insurer selling medical and cancer insurance products with hospitalization and surgery benefits.
Also offers
Sompo Japan (Visit website, opens in a new tab)
Non-life insurer with medical and injury insurance alongside home and car cover.
Also offers
Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire (Visit website, opens in a new tab)
Non-life insurer offering medical and injury insurance plus home, car and travel cover.
Also offers
Key facts
| Official source | Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare |
|---|---|
| Insurers listed | Aflac Life Insurance Japan, Dai-ichi Life, Nippon Life, Sompo Japan, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire |
| Last reviewed |
Frequently asked questions
How does health insurance work in Japan?
Universal coverage through employer-based health societies and National Health Insurance for others. Patients usually pay 30% of costs, with monthly caps. Private medical insurance adds cash benefits for hospital stays, cancer and surgery.
Is private health insurance mandatory in Japan?
No. In Japan, basic cover comes from a statutory social insurance system. Private health insurance is optional and usually complements it.
Which health insurers can I look at in Japan?
Well-known insurers listed for Japan, in alphabetical order: Aflac Life Insurance Japan, Dai-ichi Life, Nippon Life, Sompo Japan, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire. This is not a ranking or a recommendation.
Where can I find official information on health cover in Japan?
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare: https://www.mhlw.go.jp